Accommodation info and tourist tips for Vence

Attractions

The town of Vence is definitely a tourist vacation spot, with a range of attractions varying from historical landmarks dating as far as the 12^th century to the modern architecture of the 20^th century.

 Tourist Attractions

• The Rosaire Chapel

Info: Designed by the painter Henri Matisse and containing original works of art by the artist, the Rosaire Chapel is a true “masterpiece of sacred art”.

Location: Henri Matisse Avenue

 

• Municipal Cultural Center

Info: As the name suggests this is the town’s cultural center, where people of all ages come to learn, discover, participate and enjoy cultural events and above all enrich their experience and better themselves.

 

 

Historical Landmarks

• The Ash-tree

Info: The tall tree is the town’s pride, as according to legend it was planted by François I, King of France, in 1538.

Location: Place de Frêne

 

• Château de Villeneuve

Info: Originally built in the 17th century beside the 12th century watch-tower, the castle was once the residence of the seigneurs de Villeneuve, counts of Provence and lords of Vence. Entirely renovated, the Chateau is today the centre for modern and contemporary art.

Location: Place de Frêne

 

• The Tower

Info: The tower dates back to the 12th century. Although the west part retains its original appearance, the original entrance door has never been found, indicating that the foundation is probably situated several meters below today’s ground level.

Location: Place de Frêne

 

• The Gate and Fountain of the Peyra

Info: The gate was built in 1810 and the fountain in 1578, though it was reconstructed in 1822, in place of the earlier fountain.

Location: Place de Frêne

 

• Place du Peyra

Info: An ancient forum in roman times, the Place du Peyra was a traditional place for orators as well as the market-place. People who gathered there usually discussed town related subjects. The name of the place comes from the word “pierre” which means stone, since in the Middle Ages the square was used for public executions.

• Cathedral of the Nativity

Info: Built in the 4th century on the site of a Roman temple, the cathedral took its present form in the 11th century. At the entrance the cathedral bears to stone with Latin encryptions dating 220 and 239 AD. Inside the cathedral a mosaic by Marc Chagall and a unique ensemble of 17^th century statues can be admired.

Location: Place du Cathedrale

 

• The Taurobole Stone

Info: The stone is on the west face of the Cathedral of Nativity, and recalls the cult of Cybele, a ritual sacrifice in the name of mother Idaea.

Location: Place du Cathedrale